Headgear for a respiratory mask and a method for donning a respiratory mask

ABSTRACT

Headgear for a respiratory mask includes a strap arrangement comprising front strap portions adapted to be disposed over a patient&#39;s cheeks and each having a connector adapted for attachment to an airway interfacing portion, and a cover provided to each front strap portion and structured to at least partially encapsulate the front strap portion. The cover includes side portions adapted to be wrapped around the front strap portion and releasably fastened to one another.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/734,498, filed May 5, 2010, allowed, which is the U.S. National Phaseof International Application No. PCT/AU2008/001591, filed Oct. 28, 2008,which designated the U.S. and claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 61/129,682, filed Jul. 11, 2008, and 61/136,757, filedSep. 30, 2008, and Australian Provisional Application Nos. AU2007906083, filed Nov. 5, 2007, and AU 2007906172, filed Nov. 12, 2007,each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to headgear for a respiratory mask, e.g.,used in treating sleep disordered breathing (e.g., sleep apnea).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many different types of respiratory masks exist providing a variety ofdifferent headgear arrangements. Headgear arrangements are used tostabilise an airway interfacing portion and sometimes an air deliveryconduit with respect to a patient's face.

One problem encountered by some patients who have long hair is thetendency of the headgear, which sits over the top of the long hair, toslide around over the patient's hair or to displace an outer layer orlayers of the patients hair over inner layers. This can compress, moveand/or destabilise the airway interfacing portion and mess up and/ortangle the patient's hair. Additionally, current headgear is designed toslide over the head and hair of the patient in order to position it,which can also cause hair to be displaced.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the invention relates to a mask that is especially adaptedto be worn by a person having long hair and to stabilise properly ontheir head.

Another aspect of the invention relates to the provision of a back strapthat is adapted to locate underneath a patient's long hair. In oneembodiment, the back strap may press against a lower region of apatient's occiput or their upper neck in use. In one embodiment, theback strap may urge upwardly against the patient's long hair fromunderneath in use.

Advantageously, the headgear is able to be properly stabilised on apatient having long hair and so is able to hold the airway interfacingportion more stably on the patient's face in use.

According to another aspect of the present invention, headgear for arespiratory mask includes a strap arrangement comprising front strapportions adapted to be disposed over a patient's cheeks and having frontends adapted for attachment to an airway interfacing portion, top strapportions connected to respective front strap portions and adapted to bedisposed over the top of a patient's head and to connect to each other,and a back strap extending rearwardly from and connecting respectivejunctions of the front strap portions and top strap portions or regionsadjacent these junctions and adapted to locate underneath a patient'socciput. In use with a patient having long hair, the back strap isadapted to extend under the patient's hair and urge upwardly on thepatient's hair and against the patient's head beneath the occiput. Inuse with a patient having short hair, the back strap is adapted to urgeagainst the patient's head beneath the occiput.

According to another aspect of the present invention, headgear for arespiratory mask includes a strap arrangement comprising front strapportions adapted to be disposed over a patient's cheeks and having frontends adapted for attachment to an airway interfacing portion, top strapportions connected to respective front strap portions and adapted to bedisposed over the top of a patient's head and to connect to each other,and a back strap extending rearwardly from and connecting respectivejunctions of the front strap portions and top strap portions or regionsadjacent these junctions and adapted to locate underneath a patient'socciput. The top strap portions are connected at or near the crown ofthe patient's head.

According to another aspect of the present invention, headgear for arespiratory mask includes a strap arrangement comprising front strapportions adapted to be disposed over a patient's cheeks and having frontends adapted for attachment to an airway interfacing portion, top strapportions connected to respective front strap portions and adapted to bedisposed over the top of a patient's head and to connect to each other,and a back strap extending rearwardly from and connecting respectivejunctions of the front strap portions and top strap portions or regionsadjacent these junctions and adapted to locate underneath a patient'socciput. The top strap comprises a headband.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a method fordonning a respiratory mask includes inserting a patient's head between aheadband and back strap of the respiratory mask, sliding the headbandacross the front of the patient's face and up their forehead to aposition between the forehead and a crown of the patient's head, andlocating an airway interfacing portion of the respiratory mask in aninterfacing location for delivery of a gas.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a method fordonning a respiratory mask includes inserting a patient's head betweenfront headgear straps and a back strap of the mask, if the patient haslong hair, pulling the patients hair out and over the top of the backstrap, pulling the rear ends of the front headgear straps up and overthe ears, and connecting top straps of the respiratory mask adjacent thecrown of the patient's head.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a clasp forconnecting a pair of headgear straps includes a male clasp portionincluding a first portion adapted to engage one of the straps and asecond portion that provides a hook portion, and a female clasp portionincluding a first portion adapted to engage the other of the straps anda second portion that provides an aperture portion. The hook portion isreleasably engagable within the aperture portion to connect the male andfemale clasp portions to one another.

Advantageously, the mask is pulled into place by an upward movement thatserves to slide the patient's hair off their face, keeping the patient'shair neater and managing their hair around their ears. This serves toincrease patient comfort. A further advantage of this method is thatonce the front headgear straps are positioned over the ears, the mask isheld in place while the patient connects the top straps. Thus, the topstraps can be held and connected without the patient having to supportthe weight of the rest of the mask at the same time.

In an embodiment of the present invention, headgear for a mask systemmay have a back strap, where the back strap may be made from elasticwith a spring constant of between 0.001 N/mm and 1 N/mm, e.g., between0.007 N/mm and 0.07 N/mm (e.g., about 0.02 N/mm). The back strap mayprovide the only adjustment for the mask system or headgear.Alternatively, the back strap may not provide the only adjustment forthe mask system or headgear, e.g., the top strap of the headgear mayallow for adjustment.

In another embodiment, headgear for a mask system may include a backstrap that extends relative to the top and front straps within a certainangular range, e.g., at about 70 to 110 degrees to the angle of thefront straps and at about 160 to 180 degrees to the angle of the topstraps.

In another embodiment, headgear for a mask system may include a backstrap that extends relative to the horizontal datum plane of thepatient's head within a certain angular range, e.g., at about 30 to 60degrees.

In another embodiment, headgear for a mask system may include a topand/or front strap material that extends over top of ears to directangle of back strap. In another form, the top and/or front strapmaterial may touch the ears with low force.

In another embodiment, headgear for a mask system may include a backstrap that joins front/top strap at an angle other than perpendicular tothe direction of the back strap to provide more even force distributionon head. The back strap may be arranged so that when the mask is heldoff one's head it adopts an in-use shape allowing it to be more easilydonned.

In another embodiment, the back strap may urge upwardly against hair atthe back of the head as well as against the back of the head/neck whenlocated on a person with long hair.

In another embodiment, the back strap may locate under the occiput whenlocated on a person with short hair.

Another aspect of the invention relates to the provision of a claspand/or clip to bring top straps together located at crown of head sopatient can sleep on either side. This may also include a single claspso connection is independent of adjustment. Additionally, adjustment maybe on one side or on both sides of the clasp connection. Adjustment maybe performed by Velcro®, hook and loop, or any other reasonable methodof adjustment. In one form, the clasp may have a lateral fixed angle.The clasp may be a hook and loop.

In another embodiment, thin rigidisers having a width of between 2 mmand 25 mm, e.g., between 2 mm and 9 mm, may be provided to the strap ofthe headgear.

In another embodiment, headgear may include thin top straps having awidth of between 5 mm and 100 mm to minimise visual impact and impact onhair styling. In an embodiment, the top straps may have a width ofbetween 10 mm and 20 mm, e.g., about 14 mm.

In another embodiment, headgear may include thin front straps having awidth of between 2 mm and 30 mm to minimise visual impact and impact onhair styling. In an embodiment, the width of the front straps may beabout 19 mm wide. In another embodiment, the width of the front strapsmay be about 20 mm. In another embodiment, the width of the front strapsmay be about 25 mm. In an embodiment, the thin front straps may not bewider than the rigidisers.

In another embodiment, the headgear may be adapted to camouflage bycolor selection, e.g., matching hair or skin color. It is possible tohave headgear suited to women, e.g., made from colors traditionallyassociated with women (e.g., pink, purple).

In another embodiment, the headgear may be adapted to camouflage bypattern selection, e.g., matching facial shape of women.

In another embodiment, the headgear material pattern may be such thatfabric can be die-cut with the headgear shape in any orientation whilestill ensuring the patterned headgear is aesthetically suitable, e.g.,the left hand side and right hand side parts of the headgear can benested, i.e., cut out of an adjacent portion of material and still beaesthetically suitable.

In another embodiment, the top strap of the headgear may take the formof a hair band or head band, e.g., a sock or sliding band over the topstrap such that the top strap is substantially covered. The top strapmay be the hand band or the head band may be integrally formed with thetop strap. The head band may be made from elastic.

In another embodiment, fabric loops may tie down loose ends of headgearstraps.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a method for donning ahead band with mask system attached, where the head of the patient goesbetween the head band and the back strap, and the head band then slidesover the front of the face of the user to an in use position.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a method for donning ahead band mask without a mask system attached, where the head of thepatient goes between the head band and back strap, and the head bandthen slides over the front of the face of the user to an in useposition. The mask system is then connected to the headgear.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to a method for donningheadgear for person with long hair, where the patient puts their headthrough the loop between the front headgear straps and the back headgearstraps, hair is pulled out and over the top of the back strap, the topheadgear straps are pulled up the patient's face until and in useposition.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to headgear for arespiratory mask including a strap arrangement and a cover. The straparrangement includes front strap portions adapted to be disposed over apatient's cheeks and having front ends adapted for attachment to anairway interfacing portion, top strap portions connected to respectivefront strap portions and adapted to be disposed over the top of apatient's head and to connect to each other, and a back strap extendingrearwardly from and connecting respective junctions of the front strapportions and top strap portions or regions adjacent these junctions andadapted to locate underneath a patient's occiput. Each front strapportion includes a front strap and a rigidizer provided to the frontstrap. The cover extends along at least a portion of each front strapportion. The cover includes a pocket to receive a cheek support of eachfront strap portion and a slot to allow an end of the rigidizer toextend therethrough.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to headgear for arespiratory mask including a strap arrangement comprising front strapportions adapted to be disposed over a patient's cheeks and each frontstrap portion having a cheek support adapted to rest on the patient'scheek in use, and a cover provided to each front strap portion andstructured to at least partially encapsulate the cheek support.

Other aspects, features, and advantages of this invention will becomeapparent from the following detailed description when taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are a part of thisdisclosure and which illustrate, by way of example, principles of thisinvention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings facilitate an understanding of the variousembodiments of the invention. In such drawings:

FIG. 1 shows a left-side perspective view of headgear for a respiratorymask in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 shows a right-side perspective view of the headgear of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows a left side view of the headgear of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 shows a front view of the headgear of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 shows a rear view of the headgear of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 shows an enlarged view of Region A of the headgear of FIG. 1indicated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 shows a side view of the headgear of FIG. 1 and in particular arange of angles the back strap may subtend with respect to a horizontalplane through the patient's head in accordance with embodiments of theinvention;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a front headgear strap and rigidiseraccording to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a front headgear strap and rigidiseraccording to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a front headgear strap andrigidiser according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a front headgear strap andrigidiser according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a front headgear strap andrigidiser according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a front headgear strap andrigidiser according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a front headgear strap andrigidiser according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a front headgear strap andrigidiser according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a front headgear strap andrigidiser according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 are side views of front headgear straps with different widthsaccording to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a side view of a front headgear strap with a single deepnotch according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a side view of a front headgear strap with multiple notchesaccording to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a side view of a front headgear strap with a slip-on sleevein the facial area only according to an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 21 is a side view of a front headgear strap with a slip-on sleevealong the full length of the rigidizer according to an embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of a front headgear strap and sleeveaccording to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a front headgear strap and sleeveaccording to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 24 is a side view of a front headgear strap and wrap according toan embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 25 is a side view of the front headgear strap and wrap of FIG. 24with the wrap partially unwrapped;

FIG. 26 is a side view of a front headgear strap and sleeve according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 27 is a side view of the front headgear strap and sleeve of FIG. 26with the sleeve partially opened;

FIG. 28 is a side view of a front headgear strap and sleeve according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 29 is a side view of the front headgear strap and sleeve of FIG. 28with the sleeve unbuttoned;

FIG. 30 is a side view of a front headgear strap and sleeve according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 31 is a side view of the front headgear strap and sleeve of FIG. 30with the sleeve partially unzipped;

FIG. 32 is a side view of a front headgear strap and sleeve according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 33 is a side view of the front headgear strap and sleeve of FIG. 32with the sleeve partially opened;

FIG. 34 is a side view of a front headgear strap and sleeve according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 35 is a side view of the front headgear strap and sleeve of FIG. 34with the sleeve opening unlocked;

FIG. 36 is a schematic view of the snap lock fastener of the sleeve ofFIG. 34;

FIG. 37 is a side view of a front headgear strap and sleeve according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 38 is an opposing side view of the front headgear strap and sleeveof FIG. 37;

FIG. 39 is a side view of a front headgear strap and sleeve according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 40 is a partial side view showing an alternative separate sleeveportion for the sleeve of FIG. 39;

FIG. 41 is a schematic view of the front headgear strap and sleeve ofFIG. 39;

FIG. 42 is a schematic view of the front headgear strap and alternativesleeve of FIG. 39;

FIG. 43 is a side view of a front headgear strap and length of fleecematerial according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 44 is a schematic view of the front headgear strap and length offleece material of FIG. 43;

FIG. 45 is a schematic view showing an alternative arrangement for thelength of fleece material of FIG. 43;

FIG. 46 is a side view of a front headgear strap with a foam coreaccording to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 47 is a cross-sectional view showing an exemplary arrangement forthe foam core of FIG. 46;

FIG. 48 is a cross-sectional view showing another exemplary arrangementfor the foam core of FIG. 46;

FIG. 49 is a side view of a front headgear strap and sleeve according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 50 is a side view of the front headgear strap and sleeve of FIG. 49with the sides of the sleeve detached;

FIG. 51 is a side view showing an alternative arrangement for the frontheadgear strap and sleeve of FIG. 49;

FIG. 52 is a side view of a front headgear strap and sock according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 53 is a side view of a front headgear strap with a silicone strapportion according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 54 is an opposing side view of the front headgear strap withsilicone strap portion of FIG. 53;

FIG. 55 is a schematic view of the snap fit tab arrangement of thesilicone strap portion of FIG. 53;

FIG. 56 is a plan view of a sock according to another embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 57 is a side view of the sock of FIG. 56 attached to a frontheadgear strap;

FIG. 58 is an opposing side view of the sock of FIG. 56 attached to afront headgear strap;

FIG. 59 is a side view of the sock of FIG. 56 assembled to a frontheadgear strap with the tabs of hook material detached;

FIG. 60 is a side view of the sock of FIG. 56 disassembled from a frontheadgear strap;

FIG. 61 is a plan view of a sock according to another embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 62 is a side view of the sock of FIG. 61 attached to a frontheadgear strap;

FIG. 63 is an opposing side view of the sock of FIG. 61 attached to afront headgear strap;

FIG. 64 is a side view of the sock of FIG. 61 assembled to a frontheadgear strap with the tabs unwrapped and detached;

FIG. 65 is a side view of the sock of FIG. 61 assembled to a frontheadgear strap with the tabs detached but with the tab of loop materialwrapped over the respective side of the front headgear strap;

FIG. 66 is a side view of the sock of FIG. 61 disassembled from a frontheadgear strap;

FIG. 67 is a side view of a sock attached to a front headgear strapaccording to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 68 is an enlarged view of the sock of FIG. 67;

FIG. 69 is a side view of the sock of FIG. 67 disassembled from thefront headgear strap with the tabs of hook material detached;

FIG. 70 is an opposing side view of the sock of FIG. 69;

FIG. 71 is a side view of a left hand version of the sock of FIG. 67disassembled from the front headgear strap with the tabs of hookmaterial detached;

FIG. 72 is an opposing side view of the sock of FIG. 71;

FIG. 73 is a side view of the sock of FIG. 67 disassembled from thefront headgear strap with the tabs of hook material attached;

FIG. 74 is an opposing side view of the sock of FIG. 73;

FIG. 75 is a cross-sectional view of a front headgear strap and foam padaccording to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 76 is a perspective view of headgear with foam surrounding arigidiser according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 77 is a cross-sectional view of the foam and rigidizer shown inFIG. 76;

FIGS. 78-80 are perspective views of headgear including silicone cheekpad provided to a rigidiser according to embodiments of the presentinvention;

FIG. 81 is a cross-sectional view showing a rigidiser molded into asilicone cheek pad according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 82 is a cross-sectional view showing a silicone cheek pad withchannels or ridges according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 83 is a perspective view showing a silicone cheek pad retrofit to arigidiser according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 84 is a cross-sectional view showing the silicone cheek pad andrigidiser shown in FIG. 83;

FIG. 85 shows a perspective view of a clasp of the headgear of FIG. 1 ina disconnected state;

FIG. 86 shows a further perspective view of a clasp of the headgear ofFIG. 1 in a disconnected state;

FIG. 87 shows a further perspective view of a clasp of the headgear ofFIG. 1 in a disconnected state;

FIG. 88 shows a side view of a clasp of the headgear of FIG. 1 in adisconnected state;

FIG. 89 shows a perspective view of a clasp of the headgear of FIG. 1 ina connected state;

FIG. 90 shows a side view of a clasp of the headgear of FIG. 1 in aconnected state;

FIGS. 91-1 to 91-5 are various views of a clasp for headgear accordingto another embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 92-1 to 92-5 are various views of a clasp for headgear accordingto another embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 93-1 to 93-2 are perspective views of a female clasp portioncommon to the clasps shown in FIGS. 91-1 to 91-5 and 92-1 to 92-5;

FIGS. 94 to 97 are various views of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 98a is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 98b is a perspective view of a female clasp portion of the clasp ofFIG. 98 a;

FIG. 99 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 100a is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 100b is a perspective view of a female clasp portion according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 101 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 102a is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 102b is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 103a is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 103b is a perspective view of the clasp of FIG. 103a in a connectedstate;

FIG. 104a is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 104b is a side view of the clasp of FIG. 104 a;

FIG. 105 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 106 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 107 is a side view of a clasp for headgear according to anotherembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 108 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 109 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 110a is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 110b is a perspective view of the clasp of FIG. 110a in a connectedstate;

FIG. 111 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 112 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 113 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 114 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 115a is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 115b is a side view of the clasp of FIG. 115 a;

FIG. 116 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 117 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 118a is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 118b is a side view of a male clasp portion of the clasp of FIG.118 a;

FIG. 119a is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 119b is a perspective view showing an alternative male claspportion for the clasp of FIG. 119 a;

FIG. 120a is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 120b is a side view of the clasp of FIG. 120 a;

FIG. 121 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 122 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 123 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 124 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 125 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 126 is a perspective view of a buckle for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 127 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 128 is a perspective view of a clasp for headgear according toanother embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 129 illustrates a first step of a method for donning headgear of arespiratory mask according to an embodiment of the invention, theheadgear comprising a hair band top strap where the patient holds therespiratory mask by the back strap(s) in front of them;

FIG. 130 illustrates a second step of the method of FIG. 129 where thepatient inserts their head through the loop created by the hair band andthe back strap(s);

FIG. 131 illustrates a third step of the method of FIG. 129 where thepatient pulls the headgear down over their head;

FIG. 132 illustrates a fourth step of the method of FIG. 129 where thepatient slides the hair band up over their face and forehead;

FIG. 133 illustrates a fifth step of the method of FIG. 129 where theheadgear is located in an in-use position;

FIG. 134 illustrates a first step of a method for donning headgear of arespiratory mask according to another embodiment of the presentinvention, the headgear comprising top straps that clip together wherethe patient holds the respiratory mask in front of them;

FIG. 135 illustrates a second step of the method of FIG. 134 where thepatient is inserting their head through the loop formed by the backstrap, front straps and airway interfacing portion;

FIG. 136 illustrates a third step of the method of FIG. 134 where thepatient has pulled the respiratory mask over their head;

FIG. 137 illustrates a fourth step of the method of FIG. 134 where thepatient has pulled her hair up and over the top of the back strap;

FIG. 138 illustrates a fifth step of the method of FIG. 134 where thepatient is holding the front strap and starting to lift the respiratorymask upwards by the front strap;

FIG. 139 illustrates a sixth step of the method of FIG. 134 where therespiratory mask is temporarily located over the patient's ears withoutthe patient needing to hold it there;

FIG. 140 illustrates a seventh step of the method of FIG. 134 where thepatient is holding one of the top straps in each hand above her head andmoving them towards each other;

FIG. 141 illustrates an eighth step of the method of FIG. 134 where thepatient is moved the top straps to a position adjacent each other nearthe crown of their head and has just connected the clip; and

FIG. 142 illustrates a mask and the problematic displacement of the hairby a typically positioned back strap.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS

The following description is provided in relation to several embodimentswhich may share common characteristics and features. It is to beunderstood that one or more features of any one embodiment may becombinable with one or more features of the other embodiments. Inaddition, any single feature or combination of features in any of theembodiments may constitute additional embodiments.

In this specification, the word “comprising” is to be understood in its“open” sense, that is, in the sense of “including”, and thus not limitedto its “closed” sense, that is the sense of “consisting only of”. Acorresponding meaning is to be attributed to the corresponding words“comprise”, “comprised” and “comprises” where they appear.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6, headgear 10 for a respiratory mask is shownaccording to an embodiment of the present invention. The headgear 10 isespecially adapted to be worn by a person having long hair and toproperly stabilise the respiratory mask on the person's head. Theparticular type of headgear depicted is of a type used with respiratorymasks for treating sleep disordered breathing.

While the headgear is described as being especially adapted for peoplehaving long hair, it should be appreciated that the headgear may be usedby people having any suitable hair length and/or hair style (e.g.,person having short hair or even no or minimal hair). Also, it should beappreciated that the headgear may be adapted for use with any suitablemask, e.g., full-face, nasal, pillows, etc.

As described in greater detail below, the following provides headgearembodiments that are constructed and arranged to reduce facial marking,facilitate fitting, and provide hair management.

1. General Structure

As shown in FIGS. 1-6, the headgear 10 comprises two front straps 15,two top straps 20, a clasp or clip 25, and a back strap 30. Each of thefront straps 15 has a front end 35 that connects to or is integral witha frame or cushion (e.g., airway interfacing portion) of the respiratorymask and a rear end 40 that connects to or is integral with a lower end45 of the respective top strap 20. Each of the top straps 20 also has anupper end 50. The upper end 50 of the one of the top straps 20 passesthrough a male clasp portion 55 of clasp 25 while the upper end 50 ofthe other of the top straps 20 passes through a female clasp portion 60of clasp 25. The male and female clasp portions 55, 60 are adapted toreleasably connect to each other to form the clasp 25 as described ingreater detail below.

The back strap 30 has ends 70 that are connected to respective rear ends40 of the front straps 15. In other embodiments, the back strap 30 maybe connected to respective lower ends 45 of the top straps 20. In yetanother alternative, the front straps, top straps, and/or back strap maybe integrally formed in one piece.

The front straps 15 are adapted to extend from near the patient's noseor mouth, over the patient's cheeks to a location at or adjacent thepatient's ears. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the rear ends 40of the front straps 15 includes a depending portion or tail portion 75that extends over the top of the patient's ear and at an anglerearwardly and downwardly behind the patient's ears. The tail portion 75is located at or near the junction of the front straps 15 and the topstraps 20. The ends 70 of the back strap 30 connect to the tail portions75 such that the back strap is disposed at about 70 to 110 degrees tothe angle of the front straps 15, at about 160 to 180 degrees to theangle of the top straps 20 and/or at about 30 to 60 degrees to ahorizontal plane of the patient's head (i.e., the transverse plane).

In one embodiment, the tail portions 75 are relatively thicker orstiffer than the back straps 30 in use. This helps the tail portions 75direct the back straps 30 into their correct position.

1.1 Back Strap

In the illustrated embodiment, the back strap 30 is made from aflexible, elastic material and is adapted to locate underneath apatient's long hair and press against a lower region of a patient'socciput or their upper neck and/or urge upwardly against the patient'shair itself from underneath in use. When used on a person who has shorthair or who is bald, the back strap 30 is adapted to urge against thepatient's head beneath their occiput.

In the illustrated embodiment, the tail portions 75 are not tensionedagainst the patient's ears in use to avoid discomfort.

The join lines between the ends 70 of the back strap 30 and respectivetail portions 75 are disposed at an angle other than substantiallyperpendicular to the general axial direction of the back strap 30. Thatis, the back strap 30 may be co-linear with the tail portions 75 whenviewed from the side (e.g., refer to FIG. 3) but the join line ispreferably disposed at an angle closer to the vertical plane of thepatient's head (i.e., the frontal plane). This allows the back strap 30to better conform to the generally spherical shape of the human head andso provide a more even force distribution on the patient's head. Anotherbenefit of this arrangement is that when the mask is held off one's headit adopts an in-use shape allowing it to be more easily donned.

Embodiments of the invention may have a back strap 30 with a springconstant of between 0.001 N/mm and 1 N/mm, e.g., between 0.007 N/mm and0.07 N/mm (e.g., about 0.02 N/mm).

In one embodiment, the elasticity of the back strap 30 provides the onlyadjustment for allowing the mask to fit differently sized/shaped heads.

The back strap 30 helps the headgear 10 to properly stabilise on apatient having long hair and so is able to hold the airway interfacingportion more stably on the patient's face in use.

In one embodiment, as shown in dashed lines in FIG. 1, the back strap 30may include a middle portion having a longitudinal slit 31 therealongdefining an upper back strap portion 32 and a lower back strap portion34 which splay apart in use such that the back strap grips the headand/or hair better to stabilise the headgear. The slit 31 may comprisekey-hole shaped enlarged radii 33 at its ends.

In one embodiment, the back strap subtends an angle of between 60 and100 degrees with respect to the front strap. In an exemplary embodiment,this angle is about 80 degrees. In another embodiment, the back strapsubtends an angle of between 110 and 180 degrees with respect to the topstrap. In an exemplary embodiment, this angle is about 150 degrees.

Referring to FIG. 7, the back strap subtends an angle of between 90 and160 degrees with respect to the horizontal datum for the human head(i.e., the transverse plane).

In one embodiment, the back straps 30 are made from a material thatobeys Hooke's Law. In other embodiments, the back straps 30 are simplymade from a readily stretchable material. In an embodiment, the backstraps 30 do not reduce in width as they are pulled.

1.2 Rigidisers

In the illustrated embodiment, thin rigidisers 80 are attached torespective front straps 15 for stiffening, stabilising, locating and/orcurving the front straps 15. The rigidisers 80 help hold the headgear inan open form when it is not in use to make it easier for a patient todon the mask.

The rigidisers 80 have a thin width of between 2 mm and 25 mm, e.g.,between 2 mm and 9 mm. The shape of the rigidisers 80 may also take acurved form to provide feminine aesthetics.

In the illustrated embodiment, the rigidisers have a slot or aperturefor connection with a back strap. In an alternative embodiment, thisslot may not be included in the rigidizer.

2. Headgear Strap Embodiments

The following illustrates alternative embodiments of headgear straps(e.g., material combinations, socks/covers, etc.) to enhance comfort andreduce facial marking in use. For example, the strap material and/orsock/cover provided to the strap may be constructed of a relatively softmaterial configured to more evenly distribute load across the patient'sface and prevent facial marking in use.

2.1 Strap Materials

FIGS. 8-16 show alternative materials that may be used to construct thefront straps of the headgear in order to provide more comfort to thepatient. Equally, these materials could be used for any part of theheadgear or mask system.

FIG. 8 shows a front strap 15 constructed of Breath-O-Prene™ with aninner layer 15.1 of Breath-O-Prene™ foam, an outwardly facing layer 15.2of Breath-O-Prene™ Lycra, and a face contacting layer 15.3 of fleece,deep pile textile, brushed Lycra, or unbroken loop (UBL) laminatedmaterial that forms the skin contacting face of the Breath-O-Prene™.These materials may provide more comfort to the patient.

FIG. 9 shows a front strap 15 with a face contacting side 15.3constructed of thick fleece or a deep pile textile for comfort. Therigidizer 80 may be adhered to the strap 15, e.g., by double sided tape39.

FIG. 10 shows a front strap 15 including Breath-O-Prene™ foam 15.1 andan outer face contacting layer 15.3 of Lycra material wrapped around theBreath-O-Prene™ foam 15.1 (e.g., Lycra layer laminated toBreath-O-Prene™ foam and rolled around the edge). The rigidizer 80 maybe secured to the strap 15 by stitching.

FIG. 11 shows a front strap 15 constructed of standard Breath-O-Prene™and at least partially wrapped or rolled around the edges of therigidizer 80. The front strap 15 may be adhered to the rigidizer 80 byan adhesive/tape or may be stitched to the rigidizer 80.

FIG. 12 shows a similar concept to FIG. 11, however the Breath-O-Prene™is entirely wrapped or rolled around the rigidizer 80. In addition, theBreath-O-Prene™ is stitched to the rigidizer 80 at the center by asingle stitch 41 that extends through the rigidizer 80 and all thelayers of the Breath-O-Prene™. However, the Breath-O-Prene™ andrigidizer 80 may be secured by any other suitable means, e.g., gluing.

FIGS. 13 and 14 show a front strap 15 with thermoformed edges. Forexample, FIG. 13 shows Breath-O-Prene™ foam 15.1 with thermoformed edges15.9 to elevate the edges away from the patient's face, and a rigidizer80 secured to the Breath-O-Prene™ foam 15.1, e.g., by stitching. FIG. 14shows Breath-O-Prene™ foam 15.1 with thermoformed edges 15.9 to create“living hinge” style stress relief and create softer edges against thepatient's face, and a rigidizer 80 secured to the Breath-O-Prene™ foam15.1, e.g., by stitching. It should be appreciated that a front strapconstructed of Breath-O-Prene™ or any other suitable material may beprovided with thermoformed edges.

FIG. 15 shows a front strap 15 constructed of Breath-O-Prene™ foam 15.1with a thicker foam through the center and/or a softer density foamthrough the center. The Breath-O-Prene™ foam 15.1 may be laminated withLycra on either side. In an embodiment, the Breath-O-Prene™ foam 15.1may have 3 to 7 pound density and/or 2.5 to 8 mm thickness. Therigidizer 80 secured to the Breath-O-Prene™ foam 15.1, e.g., bystitching.

FIG. 16 shows a front strap 15 (e.g., constructed of Breath-O-Prene™)with soft piping 43 along the edges to avoid discomfort and potentialred marks on the user's face.

2.2 Strap Size

In an embodiment, headgear may include thin front straps having a widthof between 2 mm and 30 mm to minimise visual impact and impact on hairstyling. In an exemplary embodiment, the width of the front straps isabout 19 mm wide. In another embodiment, the width of the front strapsis about 20 mm wide. In another embodiment, the width of the frontstraps is about 25 mm wide. FIG. 17 illustrates the comparison between afront strap 15 having a width w1 of about 19-20 mm and a wider frontstrap having a width w2 of about 25 mm. In an embodiment, the thin frontstraps may not be wider than the rigidisers 80, e.g., equal to or lessthan the rigidizer width.

2.3 Notches

In an alternative embodiment, the front straps may have notches orscalloped edges. This may alter the stresses in the headgear materialand make it more comfortable for the patient in use. There may be one ormore notches provided to the front straps. For example, FIG. 18 shows afront strap 15 including a single deep notch 16 cut out at the cheeksupport, and FIG. 19 shows multiple notches 16 at various intervals onthe front strap 15. It should be noted that the notches may be regularlyor irregularly spaced along the headgear straps. It should also be notedthat one or more notches may be provided to any of the headgear straps.

2.4 Covers or Sleeves

Covers or sleeves may be provided to the front straps to provide comfortfor the patient. The covers may extend along a portion or all of thefront straps. For example, FIG. 20 illustrates a slip-on sleeve 17provided to the front strap 15 in the facial area only, and FIG. 21illustrates a slip-on sleeve 17 provided to the front strap 15 along thefull length of the rigidiser extending along the front strap. In anembodiment, the covers may be continuous with a headband provided to thetop strap. The covers or sleeves may be comprised of a suitablycomfortable material, e.g., gel, suede, foam, etc. In an embodiment, thefront strap may not be provided, e.g., cover surrounding rigidizer. Inaddition, the covers or sleeves may be structured so that they can beremovable, washable, and reattachable.

FIG. 22 shows a cross-section of the possible combinations of materialsthat may be used for the sleeves or covers to provide comfort to thepatient. In this embodiment, the sleeve 17 covering the front strap 15(e.g., constructed of Breath-O-Prene™) and rigidiser 80 includes a skincontacting side 17.1 constructed of fleece material/deep pile textile orsimilar material and outwardly facing side 17.2 constructed of Lycra orsimilar material.

FIG. 23 shows a cross-section of material combinations that may be usedin the sleeve including a gel or low durometer silicone. In thisembodiment, the sleeve 17 covering the front strap 15 (e.g., constructedof Breath-O-Prene™) and rigidiser 80 includes skin contacting side 17.1with first and second layers L1, L2 constructed of Lycra or similarmaterial that enclose a gel/low duro silicone G and an outwardly facingside 17.2 constructed of Lycra or similar material.

FIGS. 24-74 illustrate alternative front strap arrangements to providemore comfort to the patient, e.g., along the cheek region of theheadgear.

FIGS. 24 and 25 illustrate a front strap 15 with a length of material617 wrapped around the front strap 15, e.g., in a spiraling action. Asillustrated, one end portion of the material 617 includes a pocket 619to receive the end of the front strap and a slot 621 to allow the frameengaging end 81 of the rigidizer 80 to extend therethrough. The opposingend portion of the material 617 includes a fastener (e.g., first buttonfastener 625 adapted to engage a second button fastener 627 along thelength of the material) to secure the wrap in position.

FIGS. 26 and 27 illustrate a front strap 15 provided within a sleeve orcover 717. The sleeve 717 provides a pillowcase type arrangement with apillowcase type opening 731 that allows the front strap 15 to beassembled into the sleeve. As illustrated, one end portion of the sleeve717 includes a pocket 719 to receive the end of the front strap and aslot 721 to allow the frame engaging end 81 of the rigidizer 80 toextend therethrough. The opposing end portion of the sleeve 717 includesopenings 733, 735 to allow top and back strap portions to extendtherethrough. Stitching 732 is provided to each end of the pillowcasetype opening 731. In an embodiment, the sleeve 717 includes a facecontacting side (non shown) constructed of fleece and a non-facecontacting side NFC constructed of Lycra. However, other suitablematerials for the sleeve are possible.

FIGS. 28 and 29 illustrate a front strap 15 with a sleeve 817 wrappedaround the front strap. As illustrated, the sleeve 817 includes sideportions 822, 823 adapted to be wrapped and fastened around the frontstrap portion of the front strap, e.g., by a plurality of button or snapfasteners 825, and a top portion 824 adapted to be wrapped and fastenedaround the top strap portion of the front strap, e.g., by a plurality ofbutton or snap fasteners 825. The end portion of the material includes apocket 819 to receive the end of the front strap and a slot 821 to allowthe frame engaging end 81 of the rigidizer 80 to extend therethrough.

FIGS. 30 and 31 illustrate a front strap 15 provided within a sleeve orcover 917. The sleeve 917 provides an opening 931 that allows the frontstrap to be assembled into the sleeve. The opening 931 is selectivelyclosed by a zipper 925 to secure the sleeve in position. As illustrated,one end portion of the sleeve includes a pocket 919 to receive the endof the front strap and a slot 921 to allow the frame engaging end 81 ofthe rigidizer 80 to extend therethrough. The opposing end portion of thesleeve includes openings 933, 935 to allow top and back strap portionsto extend therethrough.

FIGS. 32 and 33 illustrate a front strap 15 provided within a sleeve orcover 1017. The sleeve 1017 provides a side opening 1031 that allows thefront strap to be assembled into the sleeve. The opening 1031 is closedby an elastic stitch 1025 which stretches to allow assembly of the frontstrap into the sleeve. As illustrated, one end portion of the sleeveincludes a pocket 1019 to receive the end of the front strap and a slot1021 to allow the frame engaging end 81 of the rigidizer 80 to extendtherethrough. The opposing end portion of the sleeve includes openings1033, 1035 to allow top and back strap portions to extend therethrough.

FIGS. 34 to 36 illustrate a front strap 15 provided within a sleeve orcover 1117. The sleeve 1117 provides a side opening 1131 that allows thefront strap to be assembled into the sleeve. The opening 1131 is closedby a snap lock fastener 1125. As shown in FIG. 36, the snap lockfastener 1125 includes a protrusion 1127 on one side of the sleeve thatis adapted to interlock with a u-shaped clip portion 1129 on theopposing side of the sleeve. Also, one end portion of the sleeveincludes a pocket 1119 to receive the end of the front strap and a slot1121 to allow the frame engaging end 81 of the rigidizer 80 to extendtherethrough. The opposing end portion of the sleeve includes openings1133, 1135 to allow top and back strap portions to extend therethrough.

FIGS. 37 and 38 illustrate a front strap 15 provided within a sleeve orcover 1217. The non-face contacting side NFC of the sleeve includes acavity or opening 1231 that allows the front strap to be assembled intothe sleeve. As illustrated, one end portion of the sleeve includes apocket 1219 to receive the end of the front strap and a slot 1221 toallow the frame engaging end 81 of the rigidizer 80 to extendtherethrough. The opposing end portion of the sleeve includes openings1233, 1235 to allow top and back strap portions to extend therethrough.In an embodiment, the face contacting side FC is constructed of fleeceand the non-face contacting side NFC is constructed of Lycra or fleece.However, other suitable materials for the sleeve are possible.

FIG. 39 illustrates a front strap 15 with a sleeve or cover 1317 wrappedaround the front strap. As illustrated, side portions 1322, 1323 of thesleeve are secured to the front strap by stitching 1332. One end portionof the sleeve includes a pocket 1319 to receive the end of the frontstrap and a slot 1321 to allow the frame engaging end 81 of therigidizer 80 to extend therethrough. Moreover, the pocket 1319 locatesor aligns the sleeve with respect to the front strap to enable thesleeve to be wrapped around the front strap prior to stitching.

In an alternative embodiment, as shown in FIG. 40, the sleeve 1317 mayhave no pocket and a separate sleeve portion 1318 with a suitableprofile may be provided to the end of the front strap and stitched inposition.

As shown in FIG. 41, the sleeve 1317 (e.g., constructed of a fleecematerial) may be wrapped around the front strap 15 and stitched inposition prior to the rigidizer 80 being assembled and stitched to thefront strap. In such embodiment, the rigidizer may overlap one or moreportions of the sleeve 1317.

In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 42, the sleeve 1317 may beconstructed of two materials (e.g., face contacting side FC constructedof fleece and the non-face contacting side NFC constructed of Lycra)which may be sewn together prior to attaching the sleeve 1317 to thefront strap 15.

FIGS. 43 and 44 illustrate a front strap 15 and a length of fleecematerial 1417 provided to the face contacting side FC of the frontstrap. As illustrated, the front strap 15 is cut to a narrower profileand the fleece material 1417 is attached to the front strap (e.g.,laminated or stitched) so that the fleece material 1417 includeoverhanging portions 1418 that overhang the front strap 15.

In an alternative embodiment, as shown in FIG. 45, the overhangingportion 1418 of the fleece 1417 may be folded over and stitched toitself to provide a soft, contoured edge.

FIGS. 46-48 illustrate a front strap 1515 with a foam core 1517 and arigidizer 80 provided to the front strap 1515, e.g., via stitching. Inan embodiment, as shown in FIG. 47, a face contacting side FC of thefront strap is constructed of fleece and a non-face contacting side NFCof the front strap is constructed of Lycra, and the face contacting andnon-face contacting sides FC, NFC define a sock that enclose a layer offoam material 1517 (e.g., memory foam or any varying density foam). Toassemble, the face contacting and non-face contacting sides FC, NFC ofthe sock are sewn inside out and the foam material 1517 is providedwithin the sock as the sock is turned right-side out. The front strap1515 is then sewn to the rigidizer 80.

In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 48, the foam material 1517 mayinclude dual density foam layers, e.g., higher density foam 1517(1) nearthe non-face contacting side NFC and a lower density foam 1517(2) nearthe face contacting side FC.

In each embodiment, the foam could also be a gel or other “spongy”material.

FIGS. 49 and 50 illustrate a front strap 15 with a sleeve 1617 wrappedaround the front strap. In the illustrated embodiment, the facecontacting side (not shown) of the sleeve is constructed of fleece andthe non-face contacting side NFC of the sleeve is constructed ofunbroken loop (UBL) material. As illustrated, the sleeve 1617 includesside portions 1622, 1623 adapted to be wrapped and fastened around thefront strap portion of the front strap, e.g., by a Velcro® tab 1625attachable to the UBL material, and a top portion 1624 adapted to bewrapped and fastened around the top strap portion of the front strap,e.g., by a Velcro® tab 1625 attachable to the UBL material. The endportion of the sleeve includes a pocket 1619 to receive the end of thefront strap and a slot 1621 to allow the frame engaging end 81 of therigidizer 80 to extend therethrough.

In an alternative embodiment, as shown in FIG. 51, the sleeve 1617 maybe shorter, i.e., no top portion adapted to be wrapped and fastenedaround the top strap portion of the front strap.

FIG. 52 illustrates a front strap 15 provided within a simple sock orcover 1717. In this embodiment, the sock 1717 is simply pulled over thefront strap. As illustrated, one end portion of the sleeve includes apocket 1719 to receive the end of the front strap and a slot 1721 toallow the frame engaging end 81 of the rigidizer 80 to extendtherethrough. In an embodiment, the face contacting side (not shown) isconstructed of fleece and the non-face contacting side NFC isconstructed of Lycra, mesh, or other high stretch fabric. In analternative embodiment, the sock may be made of a more rigid materialwith extra tolerance around the front strap to ease assembly.

FIGS. 53 to 55 illustrate a front strap 1815 with a silicone strapportion 1817 adapted to engage the cheek region of the patient's face inuse. As illustrated, the front strap 1815 includes top and back strapportions 1833, 1835 constructed of a fabric-type material (e.g.,constructed of Breath-O-Prene™) and a front strap portion 1817constructed of a silicone material. The top and back strap portions1833, 1835 and the front strap portion 1817 are secured to one anotherby the rigidizer 80. For example, the upper end of the rigidizer issecured to the top and back strap portions by stitching 1825 and thelower end of the rigidizer is secured to the front strap portion by asnap-fit tab arrangement, e.g., silicone tabs 1827 provided to frontstrap portion 1817 that are adapted to interlock with respectiveopenings 82 provided in the rigidizer 80 (see FIG. 55). However, the topand back strap portions and the front strap portion may be secured toone another in other suitable manners.

FIGS. 56-60 illustrate a sock 1917 for a front strap 15 according toanother embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, thesock 1917 is constructed of a fleece material and is structured to bewrapped around the face contacting side FC of the front strap so itcontacts the patient's face in use. The sock 1917 includes a stitchedfleece pocket 1919 which is structured to receive and surround the cheeksupport portion of the front strap in use. Each side of the sockincludes an elongated tab of hook material 1925 (e.g., hook Velcro®attached via a straight stitch). In use, the cheek support portion ofthe front strap is slid into the pocket 1919 and then the sides of thesock 1917 are wrapped and fastened to the front strap by mating the tabsof hook material 1925 with the front strap 15. FIGS. 57 and 58 show thesock 1917 attached to the front strap 15, FIG. 59 shows the sock 1917assembled to the front strap 15 with the tabs of hook material 1925detached, and FIGS. 56 and 60 show the sock 1917 disassembled from thefront strap 15.

The hook material 1925 may attach to the front strap 15 at the non-facecontacting side NFC (as illustrated in FIG. 57), the face contactingside, along edges of the front strap, and/or along the width of thefront strap. When the front strap is constructed of Breath-O-Prene™material, the hook material may adjoin the lycra and/or foam portions ofthe material. In an alternative embodiment, the rigidizer 80 may be madefrom a loop material or may be retrofitted with a loop material so thatthe hook material on the sock may attach to the rigidizer rather thanthe material of the front strap.

In the embodiment, the length L of the sock may be about 50-250 mm,e.g., 70-150 mm (e.g., 110 mm), and the width W of the sock may be about20-100 mm, e.g., 40-80 mm (e.g., 60 mm).

FIGS. 61-66 illustrate a sock 2017 for a front strap 15 according toanother embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, thesock 2017 is constructed of a fleece material and is structured to bewrapped around the face contacting side FC of the front strap so itcontacts the patient's face in use. The sock 2017 includes a stitchedfleece pocket 2019 which is structured to receive and surround the cheeksupport portion of the front strap in use. One side of the sock includesan elongated tab of hook material 2025 (e.g., hook Velcro® attached viaa straight stitch), and the opposite side of the sock includes anelongated tab of loop material 2026 (e.g., loop Velcro® attached via astraight stitch). As illustrated, the tabs 2025, 2026 are positioned onopposing faces of the sock so that the tabs are oriented to engage oneanother when the sock is wrapped around the front strap. That is, thecheek support portion of the front strap is slid into the pocket 2019and then the sides of the sock are wrapped over respective sides of thefront strap and fastened to one another by mating the tab of hookmaterial 2025 with the tab of loop material 2026. FIGS. 62 and 63 showthe sock 2017 attached to the front strap 15, FIG. 64 shows the sock2017 assembled to the front strap 15 with the tabs 2025, 2026 unwrappedand detached, FIG. 65 shows the sock 2017 assembled to the front strap15 with the tabs 2025, 2026 detached but with the tab of loop material2026 wrapped over the respective side of the front strap, and FIGS. 61and 66 show the sock 2017 disassembled from the front strap 15.

In an embodiment, the length L of the sock may be about 50-250 mm, e.g.,70-150 mm (e.g., 110 mm), and the width W of the sock may be about20-110 mm, e.g., 40-90 mm (e.g., 70 mm).

FIGS. 67-74 illustrate a sock 2117 for a front strap 15 according toanother embodiment of the present invention. The sock 2117 isconstructed of a single-sided fleece material and is structured to bewrapped around the face contacting side of the front strap 15 so thatthe fleece side of the sock 2117 contacts the patient's face in use. Inthis embodiment, the curvature of the sock 2117 is configured so thatthe front strap 15 is substantially covered without being too obtrusivewith the patient's face in use. In addition, the sock 2117 allows theframe engaging end 81 of the rigidizer 80 to be exposed or uncovered sothat branding on the frame engaging end 81 can be visible in use.

The sock 2117 includes a stitched fleece pocket 2119 which is structuredto receive and surround the cheek support portion of the front strap 15in use. One side of the sock 2117 includes an elongated tab of hookmaterial 2125 (e.g., hook Velcro® attached via stitching), and theopposite side of the sock 2117 includes an elongated tab of loopmaterial 2126 (e.g., loop Velcro® attached via stitching). Asillustrated, the tabs 2125, 2126 are positioned on opposing faces of thesock 2117 so that the tabs are oriented to engage one another when thesock is wrapped around the front strap 15. That is, the cheek supportportion of the front strap 15 is slid into the pocket 2119 and then thesides 2122, 2123 of the sock 2117 are wrapped over respective sides ofthe front strap 15 and fastened to one another by mating the tab of hookmaterial 2125 with the tab of loop material 2126. FIGS. 67-68 show thesock 2117 attached to the front strap 15, FIGS. 69-72 show right handside and left hand side versions of the sock 2117 disassembled from thefront strap 15 with the tabs 2125, 2126 unwrapped and detached (incontrast to the right hand side, the left hand side may not include acompany tag or label 2127), and FIGS. 73-74 show the sock 2117disassembled from the front strap 15 with the tabs 2125, 2126 wrappedand attached.

As best shown in FIG. 68, the lower end of the front strap 15 is atleast partially uncovered or visible when the sock 2117 is assembledonto the front strap 15. This allows the user to visually inspect andconfirm that the sock 2117 completely covers the front strap 15. In anembodiment, it is preferable that lower edges 2118 of the sock 2117extend about 3-5 mm from lower edges 15.5 of the front strap 15 (e.g.,as shown in the circled area of FIG. 68).

In the illustrated embodiment, the hook and loop materials 2125, 2126 donot overhang the edges of the fleece material (e.g., see FIGS. 69-72).Also, all four corners of the hook and loop materials 2125, 2126 may bechamfered to remove sharp edges. In addition, the perimeter of the sock2117 includes an overlock stitch 2128 so as to provide a soft, rollededge. This arrangement reduces sharp edges provided by the sock toenhance comfort of the sock in use.

In an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 69 and 71, a country of origin tag2129 (which is optional) may be concealed inside the pocket or sleeve2119. Also, a company tag or label 2127 may be provided on the same sideas the hook material 2125 (e.g., in the upper right hand corner) so thatthe tag or label 2127 is visible when the sock is wrapped around thefront strap 15 (i.e., tag or label faces outwardly as shown in FIG. 67).The tag or label 2127 may be stitched into position (e.g., sewn underthe overlock stitch 2128).

2.5 Foam Padding and Straps

FIG. 75 shows a foam pad 18 (thick soft foam, visco elastic or similar)provided to the patient contacting surface of the front strap 15 (e.g.,constructed of Breath-O-Prene™). The foam pad may be secured to thefront strap 15 by double sided tape 18.1 or any other suitable means. Inan embodiment, the rigidiser 80 may be secured to the front strap 15 bystitching or other suitable means.

FIGS. 76 and 77 show a thermoformed or molded foam 19 that replaces thefront headgear straps and surrounds the yoke or rigidiser 80. The yokeor rigidiser 80 may be secured to the thermoformed or molded foam 19 bydouble sided tape 19.1 or any other reasonable means.

2.6 Silicone Padding and Straps

Silicone cheek pads may be provided to the front straps of the headgearto provide more comfort to the patient. For example, FIGS. 78-80illustrate a silicone cheek pad 21 provided to a rigidiser 80. FIGS. 78and 80 show the cheek pad 21 with a width w of about 19 mm and FIG. 79shows the cheek pad 21 with a width w of about 15 mm. In an embodiment,the rigidiser 80 may be molded into the silicone cheek pad 21 (or viceversa) as shown in FIG. 81. For example, the molded silicone cheek padmay have a hardness of about 20-60 shore A. In another example, thecheek pad may be an overmolded TPE. In an embodiment, the rigidiser 80may also be adhered to the cheek pad 21, e.g., by double sided tape. Asshown in FIGS. 80 and 82, channels or ridges 23 may be provided to thesilicone cheek pad 21 to allow the silicone to flex and contour to thepatient's face in use.

In an alternative embodiment, the silicone cheek pad 21 may be retrofitto the rigidizer 80. For example, as shown in FIGS. 83 and 84, thesilicone cheek pad 21 may include male press studs 27 along its lengthstructured to mechanically lock with respective holes 29 along therigidiser 80.

3. Clasp and Top Strap Adjustment

A clasp releasably connects the top straps of the headgear to facilitatedonning of the mask or removal of the mask from the patient's head inuse, e.g., easy fit. In addition, the clasp facilitates adjustment ofthe top strap in use. In the illustrated embodiments, the clasp islocated at or adjacent the crown of the patient's head but may belocated to one side of the patient's head in other embodiments.

3.1 Clasp Embodiments

Referring to FIGS. 85-90, the male clasp portion 55 of the clasp 25comprises a first ladderlock portion 85 for engaging an upper end 50 ofone of the top straps 20 and a hook portion 90 for engaging the femaleclasp portion 60. The female clasp portion 60 of the clasp 25 comprisesa second ladderlock portion 95 for engaging an upper end 50 of the otherof the top straps 20 and an aperture portion 100 for engaging the hookportion 90 of the male clasp portion 55.

Both the male clasp portion 55 and the female clasp portion 60 aresufficiently large to be easily gripped, and the hook portion 90 andaperture portion 100 are also sufficiently large so that they can bereadily connected to one another. In one embodiment, the hook portion 90has a radiused or chamfered end so that the hook portion can be directedor guided into the aperture portion 100. In another embodiment, the maleand female clasp portions 55, 60 are adapted to sit substantially flaton the patient's head so that the force is relatively evenly distributedacross the patient's head.

The aperture portion 100 provides a ‘target window’ for receiving thehook portion 90. To an extent, the larger the target window, the easierit is for the patient to connect the hook portion 90 to the apertureportion 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the hook portion is orientedaway from the patient's head in use. Such arrangement may facilitateconnection/disconnection as the hook portion is easily visible andmanually accessible.

The clasp 25 may have a lateral fixed angle (i.e., the top straps 20 aremaintained co-linearly or at another suitable angle with respect to eachother). In one embodiment, the clasp 25 may comprise a very small hookand loop similar to that provided on bras.

FIGS. 91-1 to 93-2 illustrate clasps according to alternativeembodiments of the present invention. Specifically, FIGS. 91-1 to 91-5illustrate clasp 225 with male and female clasp portions 255, 260, FIGS.92-1 to 92-5 illustrate clasp 325 with male and female clasp portions355, 260, and FIGS. 93-1 to 93-2 illustrate female clasp portion 260which is common to both clasp 225, 325.

As illustrated in FIGS. 91-1 to 91-5, the male clasp portion 255 of theclasp 225 comprises a first ladderlock portion 285 for engaging an upperend 50 of one of the top straps 20 and a hook portion 290 for engagingthe female clasp portion 260, and the female clasp portion 260 comprisesa second ladderlock portion 295 for engaging an upper end 50 of theother of the top straps 20 and a cross-bar 202 defining an apertureportion 200 for engaging the hook portion 290 of the male clasp portion255.

In this embodiment, the hook portion 290 is in the form of a spring clipadapted to extend through the aperture portion 200 and engage thecross-bar 202 with a snap-fit. The hook portion 290 includes a tab 292that is oriented to engage the cross-bar 202 during connection and flexthe hook portion 290 open so as to receive the cross-bar 202.

Also, in the connected state (e.g., see FIGS. 91-1 and 91-3), the clasp225 provides a low profile with the hook portion 290 oriented towardsthe patient's head.

In addition, the male clasp portion 255 provides a cross-bar 280adjacent the hook portion 290 which allows a soft tube retainer 287 tobe wrapped or looped therearound. Specifically, the soft tube retainer287 is in the form of a short strap portion including a Velcro® tab 286adapted to secure the loop in position. The soft tube retainer 287 isadapted to wrap or loop around the cross-bar 280 and around the airdelivery tube so as to retain the air delivery tube in an upwardposition over the top of the patient's head.

With respect to clasp 325 (shown in FIGS. 92-1 to 92-5), the male claspportion 355 comprises a first ladderlock portion 385 for engaging anupper end 50 of one of the top straps 20 and a hook portion 390 forpassing through aperture portion 200 and engaging the cross-bar 202 ofthe female clasp portion 260.

In this embodiment, the hook portion 390 is in the form of a C-clipadapted to extend through the aperture portion 200 and receive thecross-bar 202 therewithin. In contrast to the spring clip type hookportion 290 described above, the hook portion 390 does not releasablyengage the cross-bar 202 with a snap-fit, rather the hook portion 390provides sufficient clearance to receive the cross-bar 202 therewithin.

Similar to clasp 225, the clasp 325 provides a low profile with the hookportion 390 oriented towards the patient's head in the connected state(e.g., see FIGS. 92-1 and 92-3). In addition, the male clasp portion 355provides a cross-bar 380 adjacent the hook portion 390 which allows asoft tube retainer 287 to be wrapped or looped therearound for retainingthe air delivery tube as described above.

In one form, features may be provided to the clasp 225 so as to preventincorrect assembly. For example, a cut out or groove A may be providedon male clasp portion 255 and a ridge or protrusion B may be provided tothe female clasp portion 260, as shown in FIGS. 94 to 97.

In one embodiment, at least one of the top straps 20 further comprisesan adjustment device to facilitate adjustment of its length. In anotherembodiment, each of the top straps 20 comprises an adjustment device tofacilitate adjustment of its length. In the illustrated embodiment, theclasp 25 can be maintained centrally over the crown of the patient'shead. As such, the patient may rest on either side of their head withoutthe clasp 25 pressing against their head (which may cause discomfort).Suitable types of adjustment devices are hook and loop (e.g., Velcro®)type adjustments and ladder-lock adjustments, like those provided onbras.

Advantageously, the top straps 20 can be connected or disconnectedindependently of adjustment of the headgear. The clasp 25 is simpler touse than an equivalent hook and loop style attachment, which isparticularly helpful since it is located out of the patient's line ofsight. Sometimes hook and loop attachments can catch hair between thehook and loop portions and this problem is particularly pronounced forpatients who have long hair. Another disadvantage, associated with usinghook and loops attachments as the main top strap connector is that hookand loop material (e.g., Velcro®) wears out relatively quickly.Therefore, embodiments of the invention are particularly advantageoussince the mask can be donned or taken off without having to use a hookand loop style attachment.

In an embodiment, the clasp 25 only includes a single hook and a singlecorresponding aperture to avoid the connection being done up improperly.

In one embodiment, the clasp 25 is the same width as the top straps 20or a similar width.

FIGS. 98a to 128 illustrate clasps or buckles according to alternativeembodiments of the present invention. Similar to the embodimentsdescribed above, each clasp includes male and female clasp portions thatare adapted to releasably connect to each other. For example, FIGS. 98aand 98b , 99, 101, 103 a and 103 b, 105-107, 108, 115 a and 115 b, and117 illustrate clasp embodiments with a hook and opening arrangement,FIGS. 102b, 104a and 104b , 109, 114, 118 a and 118 b, 121, and 122illustrate clasp embodiments having a pin and hole arrangement, FIGS.100a , 116, 123-125, and 127 illustrate clasp embodiments having a T-barand hook arrangement, and FIGS. 119a and 128 illustrate claspembodiments having a pin and hook arrangement.

In addition, the clasp may be structured to support a c-shaped tuberetainer (e.g., see FIGS. 112, 113, 114, 115 a and 115 b, 118 b, 119 a,122-125, and 127-128) or a soft tube retainer (e.g., see FIGS. 111, 117,and 121) for retaining the air delivery tube.

In embodiment, the clasp or buckle may be structured such that when theheadgear is tightened or in tension, the clasp or buckle will not bendor flex inwards towards the patient's head. This arrangement is to avoidpressure points on the patient's head and avoid unduly messing up thepatient's hair. For example, FIGS. 98a and 98b show a buckle that willnot flex inwards towards the patient's head as the ramps 2510 won'tallow the cross bar 2502 to flex once in a connected position.Alternatively, FIG. 116 shows a buckle that may flex towards thepatient's head, e.g., no ramps.

In FIGS. 98a and 98b , the male clasp portion 2555 of the clasp includesa hook portion 2590 for passing through aperture portion 2500 andengaging the cross-bar 2502 of the female clasp portion 2560. Asillustrated, the male and female clasp portions 2555, 2560 providecomplementary ramps 2510 to prevent wrong assembly. Also, while notshown, the male and female clasp portions may provide ladderlockportions for engaging respective headgear straps.

In FIG. 99, the male clasp portion 2655 of the clasp includes a hookportion 2690 for passing through aperture portion 2600 and engaging thecross-bar 2602 of the female clasp portion 2660. Also, while not shown,the male and female clasp portions may provide ladderlock portions forengaging respective headgear straps.

In FIG. 100a , the male clasp portion 2755 of the clasp includes a T-barportion 2790 for engaging the hook portion 2702 of the female claspportion 2760. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 100b , the T-bar portionmay be replaced with a cross-bar 2710 for engaging the hook portion2702. Also, the male and female clasp portions may provide ladderlockportions (e.g., such as ladderlock portion 2795 on male clasp portion2755) for engaging respective headgear straps.

In FIG. 101, the male clasp portion 2855 of the clasp includes a hookportion 2890 for passing through aperture portion 2800 and engaging thecross-bar 2802 of the female clasp portion 2860. As illustrated, themale and female clasp portions 2855, 2860 provide complementary ramps2810 to prevent wrong assembly. Also, while not shown, the male andfemale clasp portions may provide ladderlock portions for engagingrespective headgear straps.

In FIG. 102a , the male clasp portion 2955 of the clasp includes a hookportion 2990 for engaging a cross-bar 2902 of the female clasp portion2960. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 102b , the male clasp portion 3055of the clasp may include a pin 3090 for passing through an opening 3002of the female clasp portion 3060. Also, while not shown, each of themale and female clasp portions may provide ladderlock portions forengaging respective headgear straps.

In FIGS. 103a and 103b , the male clasp portion 3155 of the claspincludes spaced apart hook portions 3190 for passing through spacedapart apertures 3100 of the female clasp portion 3160. Also, the maleand female clasp portions may provide ladderlock portions 3195 forengaging respective headgear straps. In addition, the male clasp portion3155 provides an aperture 3180 for engagement with a c-shaped tuberetainer 3187.

In FIGS. 104a and 104b , the male clasp portion 3255 of the claspincludes spaced apart pins 3290 for passing through spaced apartapertures 3200 of the female clasp portion 3260. Also, while not shown,each of the male and female clasp portions may provide ladderlockportions for engaging respective headgear straps.

In FIG. 105, the male clasp portion 3355 of the clasp includes a hookportion 3390 for passing through aperture portion 3300 and engaging thecross-bar 3302 of the female clasp portion 3360. Also, the male andfemale clasp portions may provide ladderlock portions (e.g., such asladderlock portion 3395 on male clasp portion 3355) for engagingrespective headgear straps.

In FIG. 106, the male clasp portion 3455 of the clasp includes a hookportion 3490 for passing through aperture portion 3400 and engaging thecross-bar 3402 of the female clasp portion 3460. Also, the male andfemale clasp portions may provide ladderlock portions for engagingrespective headgear straps.

In FIG. 107, the male clasp portion 3555 of the clasp includes a hookportion 3590 for engaging the cross-bar 3502 of the female clasp portion3560. Also, the male and female clasp portions may provide ladderlockportions for engaging respective headgear straps.

In FIG. 108, the male clasp portion 3655 of the clasp includes a hookportion 3690 for passing through aperture portion 3600 and engaging thecross-bar 3602 of the female clasp portion 3660. Also, the male andfemale clasp portions provide ladderlock portions 3695 for engagingrespective headgear straps.

In FIG. 109, the male clasp portion 3755 of the clasp includes a pin3790 for passing through an aperture 3700 of the female clasp portion3760. Also, the male and female clasp portions provide ladderlockportions 3795 for engaging respective headgear straps.

In FIGS. 110a and 110b , one of clasp portions 3855 of the claspincludes a first interlocking structure 3890 for engaging andinterlocking with a complementary second interlocking structure 3802provided to the other of the clasp portions 3860. In the illustratedembodiment, the first and second interlocking structures provide aninterlocking stair-step arrangement. Also, the male and female claspportions provide ladderlock portions 3895 for engaging respectiveheadgear straps.

In FIG. 111, the male clasp portion 3955 of the clasp includes a hookportion 3990 for passing through aperture portion 3900 and engaging thecross-bar 3902 of the female clasp portion 3960. Also, the male andfemale clasp portions provide ladderlock portions 3995 for engagingrespective headgear straps. In addition, the male clasp portion 3955provides a cross-bar 3980 which allows a soft tube retainer 3987 to bewrapped or looped therearound.

In FIG. 112, the male clasp portion 4055 of the clasp includes anannular retaining portion 4090 for passing through and engaging aring-shaped aperture portion 4000 of the female clasp portion 4060,e.g., with a snap-fit. Also, the male and female clasp portions provideladderlock portions 4095 for engaging respective headgear straps. Inaddition, the male clasp portion 4055 provides an aperture 4080 forengagement with a c-shaped tube retainer 4087.

FIG. 113 shows a clasp similar to that shown in FIG. 110 and indicatedwith similar reference numerals, i.e., first and second complementaryinterlocking structures 3890, 3802. In contrast, the clasp portion 3855in FIG. 113 provides an aperture 3880 for engagement with a c-shapedtube retainer 3887.

In FIG. 114, the male clasp portion 4155 of the clasp includes a pin4190 for passing through an aperture 4100 of the female clasp portion4160. Also, the male and female clasp portions provide ladderlockportions 4195 for engaging respective headgear straps. In addition, ac-shaped tube retainer 4187 includes an aperture for engagement with thepin 4190.

In FIGS. 115a and 115b , the male clasp portion 4255 of the claspincludes a hook portion 4290 for passing through aperture portion 4200of the female clasp portion 4260. Also, the male and female claspportions provide ladderlock portions 4295 for engaging respectiveheadgear straps. In addition, the female clasp portion 4260 provides anaperture 4280 for engagement with a c-shaped tube retainer 4287.

In FIG. 116, the male clasp portion 4355 of the clasp includes a T-barportion 4390 for engaging spaced apart hook portions 4302 of the femaleclasp portion 4360. Also, the male and female clasp portions provideladderlock portions 4395 for engaging respective headgear straps.

In FIG. 117, the male clasp portion 4455 of the clasp includes a hookportion 4490 for passing through aperture portion 4400 and engaging thecross-bar 4402 of the female clasp portion 4460. Also, the male andfemale clasp portions provide ladderlock portions 4495 for engagingrespective headgear straps. In addition, the free end of the hookportion 4490 provides a cross-bar 4480 which allows a soft tube retainer4487 to be wrapped or looped therearound.

In FIGS. 118a and 118b , the male clasp portion 4555 of the claspincludes a pin 4590 for passing through an aperture 4500 of the femaleclasp portion 4560. Also, the male and female clasp portions provideladderlock portions 4595 for engaging respective headgear straps. Inaddition, the male clasp portion 4555 provides an aperture 4580 forengagement with a c-shaped tube retainer 4587.

In FIG. 119a , the male clasp portion 4655 of the clasp includes a ball4690 for engaging a hook portion 4602 of the female clasp portion 4660.Also, the male and female clasp portions provide ladderlock portions4695 for engaging respective headgear straps. In addition, the maleclasp portion 4655 provides an aperture 4680 for engagement with ac-shaped tube retainer 4687. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 119b , themale clasp portion may include a T-bar portion 4790 for engaging thehook portions 4602.

FIGS. 120a and 120b illustrate a buckle arrangement for couplingheadgear straps. In this arrangement, a first buckle 4755 is provided toone headgear strap (e.g., via stitching) and a second buckle 4760 isprovided to allow the other headgear strap to wrap around the first andsecond buckles 4755, 4760 and couple the headgear straps to one another.

In FIG. 121, the male clasp portion 4855 of the clasp includes a pin4890 for passing through an aperture 4800 of the female clasp portion4860. Also, the male and female clasp portions provide ladderlockportions 4895 for engaging respective headgear straps. In addition, asoft tube retainer 4887 includes an aperture for engagement with the pin4890.

In FIG. 122, the male clasp portion 4955 of the clasp includes a pin4990 for passing through an aperture 4900 of the female clasp portion4960. Also, the male and female clasp portions provide ladderlockportions 4995 for engaging respective headgear straps. In addition, ac-shaped tube retainer 4987 includes an aperture for engagement with anend portion of the pin 4990, e.g., with a snap-fit.

In FIG. 123, the male clasp portion 5055 of the clasp includes a T-barportion 5090 for engaging spaced apart hook portions 5002 of the femaleclasp portion 5060. In the illustrated embodiment, the each hook portionprovides a ramp-like configuration. Also, the male and female claspportions provide ladderlock portions 5095 for engaging respectiveheadgear straps. In addition, the female clasp portion 5060 provides anaperture (not visible) for engagement with a c-shaped tube retainer5087.

In FIG. 124, the male clasp portion 5155 of the clasp includes a T-barportion 5190 for engaging spaced apart hook portions 5102 of the femaleclasp portion 5160. In the illustrated embodiment, the each hook portionprovides a u-shaped configuration. Also, the male and female claspportions provide ladderlock portions 5195 for engaging respectiveheadgear straps. In addition, the female clasp portion 5160 provides anaperture (not visible) for engagement with a c-shaped tube retainer5187.

In FIG. 125, the male clasp portion 5255 of the clasp includes a T-barportion 5290 for engaging spaced apart hook portions 5202 of the femaleclasp portion 5260. In the illustrated embodiment, the each hook portionprovides an arcuate c-shaped configuration. Also, the male and femaleclasp portions provide ladderlock portions 5295 for engaging respectiveheadgear straps. In addition, the female clasp portion 5260 provides anaperture (not visible) for engagement with a c-shaped tube retainer5287.

FIG. 126 illustrates a buckle including ladderlock portions 5395 on eachend for engaging respective headgear straps and an offset retainingportion 5397 with an aperture 5380 for engagement with a tube retainer(not shown).

In FIG. 127, the male clasp portion 5455 of the clasp includes a T-barportion 5490 for engaging spaced apart hook portions 5402 of the femaleclasp portion 5460. Also, the male and female clasp portions provideladderlock portions 5495 for engaging respective headgear straps. Inaddition, the female clasp portion 5460 provides an aperture 5480 forengagement with a c-shaped tube retainer 5487.

In FIG. 128, the male clasp portion 5555 of the clasp includes a pair ofballs or pins 5590 for engaging hook portions 5502 of the female claspportion 5560. Also, the male and female clasp portions provideladderlock portions 5595 for engaging respective headgear straps. Inaddition, the female clasp portion 5560 provides an aperture 5580 forengagement with a c-shaped tube retainer 5587.

4. Headband and Hair Management

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a headband may beprovided to the headgear to manage the patient's hair in use. Also, theheadgear nay be donned to the patient's head in a particular manner tomanage the patient's hair in use.

4.1 Headband

In one embodiment, the top straps 20 may include or be replaced by aheadband or hair band (e.g., see headband 420 in FIGS. 129-133). In oneembodiment, the top straps 20 form a substructure for the headband whichtakes the form of an open-ended sock positioned over at least a portionof the top straps 20. This provides the benefit that when the top strap20 is resized, the sock headband can be slid over the surface of the topstrap 20 to cover it. This provides aesthetic and tactile benefits. Theheadband is preferably soft, and in the case that it replaces the topstraps 20 is also preferably elastic to provide adaptability for fittinga range of different sized heads.

The headband may be made from a fabric, rubberised, elastomer, elastic,woven, knitted or netted material.

In this embodiment, the top strap and front strap are about 14 mm widewhich is relatively thin. This serves to minimise visual impact andimpact on hair styling.

In another embodiment, loops may be provided on each of the top straps20 to tie down loose ends of the top straps 20. The loops may be made offabric, silicone or another soft material.

4.2 Method for Donning Headband Headgear

Referring to FIGS. 129-133, sequential steps of a method for donningheadgear 410 of a respiratory mask are shown, the headgear comprising ahair band top strap 420.

Referring to FIG. 129, a first step involves the patient holding therespiratory mask by the back strap(s) 430 in front of them. This mayalso require the patient to detach an interfacing portion of the maskfrom the headgear 410.

Referring to FIG. 130, a second step involves the patient insertingtheir head through the loop created by the hair band 420 and the backstrap(s) 430.

Referring to FIG. 131, a third step involves the patient pulling theheadgear 410 down over their head.

Referring to FIG. 132, a fourth step involves the patient sliding thehair band 420 across the front of their face and up their forehead to aposition between the forehead and the crown of their head.

Referring to FIG. 133, a fifth step involves locating the headgear 410in an in-use position then reattaching the interfacing portion to theheadgear 410 if it has been removed and locating it in an interfacinglocation for delivery of gas to the patient.

Advantageously, the mask helps keep the patient's hair out of their eyesand off their face and avoids tangling or messing up the patient's hair.It is easy and intuitive to use, particularly because many women arefamiliar with how to use head bands.

4.3 Method for Donning Non-Headband Headgear

Referring to FIGS. 134 to 141, sequential steps of a method for donningnon-headband headgear of a respiratory mask are shown. The method isdescribed using the headgear 10 with clasp 25 described above. That is,the respiratory mask has an interfacing portion 5 and headgear 10comprising top straps 20 that clip together over the top of thepatient's head with clasp 25.

Referring to FIG. 134, a first step of a method of donning headgear 10of a respiratory mask involves the patient holding the respiratory maskin front of them.

Referring to FIG. 135, a second step involves the patient insertingtheir head through the loop formed by the back strap 30, front straps 15and airway interfacing portion 5.

Referring to FIG. 136, a third step involves the patient pulling therespiratory mask over their head.

Referring to FIG. 137, a fourth step involves the patient pulling theirhair up, out and over the top of the back strap 30 (i.e. if the patienthas long hair).

Referring to FIG. 138, a fifth step involves the patient holding thefront straps 15 or back strap 30 (as illustrated) and starting to liftthe respiratory mask upwards by the front straps 15.

Referring to FIG. 139, a sixth step involves the respiratory mask beingtemporarily located over the patient's ears without the patient needingto hold it there. That is, the rear ends of the front headgear straps 15are moved up and over the patient's ears. Top straps 20 may not beconnected.

Referring to FIG. 140, a seventh step involves the patient holding oneof the top straps 20 in each hand above their head and moving themtowards each other.

Referring to FIG. 141, an eighth step involves the patient moving thetop straps 20 to a position adjacent each other near the crown of theirhead and connecting the male and female clasp portions 55, 60 of theclasp 25 to one another to secure the respiratory mask to the patient'shead.

Referring to FIG. 142, a conventional mask is shown where the back strap530 has slid up the hair on the back of the patient's head and messed itup. Utilisation of the above method has the advantage that the patient'shair styling is not displaced or messed up by the back strap. This makesuse of the respiratory mask more comfortable for the patient, therebyimproving compliance.

5. Styling of Headgear

The headgear may be adapted to be camouflaged against the patient bybeing provided in a colour(s) or in a pattern(s) matching the patient'sskin colour and/or hair colour. The mask may also be provided infeminine colours.

The headgear may be adapted to be camouflaged against the patient bybeing provided with an aesthetic surface pattern that matches or suitsthe facial shape of the patient.

The material pattern may also be selected such that during manufacture aheadgear element may be die-cut out of any portion of the patternedfabric and still be aesthetically suitable. Advantageously, this allowsleft and right hand side headgear element portions of the fabric to benested before they are cut out. This reduces material wastage and thuscost of goods.

In an embodiment where the top strap takes the form of a headband, theheadband and back strap may be coloured similarly to provide a fittingcue. That is, the headband and back strap may provide a coloured loopthrough which the patient's head is to be inserted.

In an embodiment, the headgear is made from medium to dark colouredmaterials so the headgear does not show dirt significantly.

While the invention has been described in connection with what arepresently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments,it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to thedisclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover variousmodifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit andscope of the invention. Also, the various embodiments described abovemay be implemented in conjunction with other embodiments, e.g., aspectsof one embodiment may be combined with aspects of another embodiment torealize yet other embodiments. Further, each independent feature orcomponent of any given assembly may constitute an additional embodiment.In addition, while the invention has particular application to patientswho suffer from OSA, it is to be appreciated that patients who sufferfrom other illnesses (e.g., congestive heart failure, diabetes, morbidobesity, stroke, bariatric surgery, etc.) can derive benefit from theabove teachings. Moreover, the above teachings have applicability withpatients and non-patients alike in non-medical applications.

What is claimed is:
 1. Headgear for a respiratory mask, the headgearcomprising: a strap arrangement comprising front strap portions adaptedto be disposed over a patient's cheeks, each front strap portion havinga connector adapted for attachment to an airway interfacing portion; anda cover provided to each front strap portion and structured to at leastpartially encapsulate the front strap portion, the cover including aface contacting side arranged on one side of the front strap portion anda non-face contacting side arranged on an opposite side of the frontstrap portion, the face contacting side having a face contacting surfaceadapted to contact a patient's skin and the non-face contacting sidehaving an outwardly facing surface adapted to face away from thepatient's skin, wherein the face contacting side of the cover isconstructed from a different material than the non-face contacting sideof the cover, wherein lateral edges of the face contacting and non-facecontacting sides are fixedly attached to one another to fix the facecontacting and non-face contacting sides in an operative position andthereby securely enclose the front strap portion between the facecontacting and non-face contacting sides and prevent removal of thefront strap portion along an axis extending perpendicular to the facecontacting and non-face contacting sides in the operative position, andwherein one end portion of the cover is structured and arranged toaccommodate top and back strap portions of the strap arrangement. 2.Headgear according to claim 1, wherein the cover includes a fabric orfleece material.
 3. Headgear according to claim 1, wherein the coverincludes a length of material wrapped around the front strap portion. 4.Headgear according to claim 1, wherein each front strap portion includesa front strap and a rigidizer provided to the front strap.
 5. Headgearaccording to claim 4, wherein each rigidizer includes a first endportion that provides the connector and a second end portion thatprovides a cheek support, the cheek support adapted to guide arespective end portion of the front strap portion into engagement withthe patient's cheek.
 6. Headgear according to claim 4, wherein at leasta portion of the rigidizer is uncovered or visible when the cover isassembled onto the front strap portion.
 7. Headgear according to claim6, wherein at least an upper end of the rigidizer is uncovered orvisible when the cover is assembled onto the front strap portion. 8.Headgear according to claim 4, wherein each rigidizer includes an endportion that provides the connector, and the connector is uncovered orvisible when the cover is assembled onto the front strap portion. 9.Headgear according to claim 1, wherein the cover includes lower edgesthat extend beyond lower edges of the front strap portion.
 10. Headgearaccording to claim 1, wherein a perimeter of the cover includes anoverlock stitch to provide a soft, rolled edge.
 11. Headgear accordingto claim 1, wherein the face contacting side is constructed of a fleecematerial.
 12. Headgear according to claim 1, wherein the cover includesa slot to allow the connector to extend therethrough.
 13. Headgearaccording to claim 1, wherein the top strap portions are connected torespective front strap portions and adapted to be disposed over the topof a patient's head and to connect to each other, and the back strapportions extend rearwardly from and connect respective junctions of thefront strap portions and top strap portions or regions adjacent thesejunctions and adapted to locate underneath a patient's occiput.
 14. Arespiratory mask for treatment of sleep disordered breathing comprisingan airway interfacing portion and headgear according to claim
 1. 15.Headgear according to claim 1, wherein the face contacting side of thecover includes a multi-layered construction including at least first andsecond layers of material.
 16. Headgear according to claim 1, whereinthe non-face contacting side is constructed of a material structured toattach to a hook and loop fastener.
 17. Headgear according to claim 1,wherein the lateral edges of the face contacting and non-face contactingsides are sewn to one another.
 18. Headgear according to claim 1,wherein the cover includes an opposing end portion including a slot toallow the connector to extend therethrough.
 19. Headgear according toclaim 18, wherein each front strap portion further comprises a cheeksupport, and the opposing end portion of the cover includes a pocket toreceive the cheek support.
 20. Headgear according to claim 1, whereinsaid one end portion of the cover bifurcates to accommodate the top andback strap portions of the strap arrangement.
 21. Headgear according toclaim 1, wherein said one end portion of the cover includes coverportions structured arranged to at least partially encapsulate the topand back strap portions.
 22. Headgear according to claim 1, wherein saidone end portion of the cover includes first and second openingsstructured and arranged to allow respective top and back strap portionsof the strap arrangement to extend therethrough.
 23. Headgear for arespiratory mask, the headgear comprising: a strap arrangementcomprising front strap portions adapted to be disposed over a patient'scheeks, each front strap portion having a connector adapted forattachment to an airway interfacing portion; and a cover provided toeach front strap portion and structured to at least partiallyencapsulate the front strap portion, the cover including side portionsadapted to be wrapped around the front strap portion and releasablyfastened to one another, wherein each front strap portion includes afront strap and a rigidizer provided to the front strap, wherein eachrigidizer includes a first end portion that provides the connector and asecond end portion that provides a cheek support, the cheek supportadapted to guide a respective end portion of the front strap portioninto engagement with the patient's cheek, and wherein the cheek supportcurves inwardly of the connector such that a free end of the cheeksupport is spaced and separated from a free end of the connector. 24.Headgear according to claim 23, wherein the cover includes a facecontacting side arranged on one side of the front strap portion and anon-face contacting side arranged on an opposite side of the front strapportion, the face contacting side of the cover comprising a differentmaterial than the non-face contacting side of the cover.
 25. Headgearaccording to claim 23, wherein at least a portion of the rigidizer isuncovered or visible when the cover is assembled onto the front strapportion.
 26. Headgear according to claim 23, wherein the cover includesa slot to allow the connector to extend therethrough.
 27. A respiratorymask for treatment of sleep disordered breathing comprising an airwayinterfacing portion and headgear according to claim
 23. 28. Headgear fora respiratory mask, the headgear comprising: a strap arrangementcomprising front strap portions adapted to be disposed over a patient'scheeks, each front strap portion having a connector adapted forattachment to an airway interfacing portion; and a cover provided toeach front strap portion and structured to at least partiallyencapsulate the front strap portion, wherein each front strap portionincludes a rigidizer having a first portion that provides the connectorand a second portion that provides a cheek support, the cheek supportadapted to guide a respective portion of the front strap portion intoengagement with the patient's cheek, and wherein the cover includes apocket to receive the cheek support.
 29. Headgear according to claim 28,wherein the cover includes a face contacting side arranged on one sideof the front strap portion and a non-face contacting side arranged on anopposite side of the front strap portion, the face contacting side ofthe cover comprising a different material than the non-face contactingside of the cover.
 30. Headgear according to claim 28, wherein at leasta portion of the rigidizer is uncovered or visible when the cover isassembled onto the front strap portion.
 31. Headgear according to claim28, wherein the cover includes a slot to allow the connector to extendtherethrough.
 32. A respiratory mask for treatment of sleep disorderedbreathing comprising an airway interfacing portion and headgearaccording to claim 28.